A travel guide to Manhattan, Midtown in New York
So where is midtown in New York?
Manhattan Midtown refers to the central part of the borough of Manhattan in New York City. It is one of the busiest and most iconic areas of the city, known for its skyscrapers and world-famous landmarks, entertainment, and shopping districts.
The area is divided into several sub-neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct characteristics and attractions, that bring millions to the area every year from all over the world.
What do I need to know about Manhattan Midtown?
It is essentially the heart of Manhattan and is divided into several smaller neighbourhoods and districts. It is located between 14th Street to the south and 59th Street to the north, extending from the Hudson River on the west to the East River on the east.
Where in Manhattan should I visit?
Times Square
Let’s start with the world-famous Times Square. It’s one of the most recognisable tourist attractions and a must-visit for anyone heading into the city. It’s famed for its bright lights, giant billboards and vibrancy.
Times Square is a commercial and entertainment hub famous for its Broadway theatres, shopping, and lively street performances.
A visitor from Singapore to Times Square called it a “classic NYC site” saying:
Must see, of course. I like how near it is to many other sites and attractions, because really Times Square is just more of a photo opportunity at least to me, there’s no exact activities here. Beware of the people in costumes, you’ll need to pay them if you engage them. You don’t need to linger around, really
Shirannie via TripAdvisor
Broadway Threater District
Whilst in NYC, you must visit the Broadway Theater District. The area hosts an array of theatrical productions, musicals, and plays. It’s one of the arts industry’s most iconic hubs – known globally – for its world-class productions.
Central Park
Whilst NYC is known for its skyscrapers and busy city lifestyle, a famous strip of green, known as Central Park, serves as a peaceful oasis among the hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, picnics, bike rides and plenty of other recreational activities are on offer, including a visit to the zoo and several cultural institutions.
It offers a diverse range of experiences that allows people to connect with nature and culture
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The park has landmarks dotted along it and plenty of hiking trails that are enjoyed by both New Yorkers and tourists alike. It offers a diverse range of experiences that allows people to connect with nature and culture and is a beloved part of the urban fabric of the city.
Central Park proves to be a big hit with tourists and locals all year round, one visitor said:
My absolute favorite thing about NYC is this Park!! The variety of people, the quiet and not so quiet places just take you to a different place. Nature is our friend and we have to do better to benefit it!
Silviya S said via TripAdvisor
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is another major NYC landmark and one of the most well-known buildings globally. This iconic skyscraper offers observation decks that provide panoramic views of the city, making it one of the most popular destinations for tourists.
Depending on when you visit you may get to see the building lit up, there’s also the annual Empire State Building Run-Up – an annual race in which participants race up the stairs to the building’s observation deck.
Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue – a renowned avenue running through Midtown and is known for its high-end shops, luxury boutiques, and flagship shops of some of the world’s most famous brands. It is lined with many cultural institutions and landmarks including several world-class museums. The street spans through areas such as Greenwich Village, Midtown, and the Upper East Side.
Fifth Avenue is a symbol of luxury and elegance
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It’s a must-visit for those looking for upscale shopping, cultural landmarks, and historic architecture. Fifth Avenue is a symbol of luxury and elegance and worth a visit – even if you’re visiting on a budget.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is a massive commercial complex that includes the famous Radio City Music Hall, the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and the iconic ice skating rink during the winter months.
It is situated between Fifth and Sixth Avenues and its prominent buildings play a significant role in shaping the Midtown Manhattan skyline.
The NBC Studios, home to shows such as SNL, are produced at the studios within the Rockefeller Center. The complex features various sculptures, murals, and public art installations, contributing to the cultural character of the space.
Grand Central Station Terminal
One of the must-do experiences of visiting NYC is visiting Grand Central Terminal. This historic transportation hub is more than just a train station – it’s rich in cultural, architectural, and historical significance. It provides a unique and enriching experience for those visiting and you might even get treated to a flash mob performance.
It’s one of the world’s largest train terminals and servers as a hub for both trains and subways. The terminal features elegant design elements and a bustling market area known as the Grand Central Market.
United Nations Headquarters
For a bit of education, head on over to the United Nations Headquarters in New York where you can get a guided tour offering up a unique experience for the tourists. The HQ provides a glimpse into the world of international diplomacy, cooperation, and global issues.
The HQ also features a diverse collection of art and cultural artefacts that have been donated by member states. The art on display reflects the values, traditions, and creativity of the different nations.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The world-class art collection on display at the MoMA makes the visit worthwhile for any and all art enthusiasts. The Museum houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks by renowned global artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, and more.
